Thanks to Sharell Toon we have a new article designed to help the many independent fighters out there with the issues relating to being your own manager.ÿ Click on READ MORE to see the article and hopefully avoid some basic pitfalls.
Self Management Tips for Fighters
This is a list of tips to help those who have yet to
get themselves a Manager in today’s fight world.
1.) Self Promotion – By this I mean, send out tapes of
you fighting and or training to any promoter whose
show you may be interested in competing in.ÿ You may
also want to send tapes to other fighter’s managers
for their input on your skills.
2.) Contact Information – Have current phone and email
services where you can be contacted.ÿ If you receive a
message, respond as soon as possible.
3.) Biography – Have your bio, experience and stats
ready at all times.
4.) List of Contacts – Start yourself a list of
contacts: Other fighters, promoters and or
instructors.ÿ Anyone you meet in the fight business.
You never know when they will come in handy later down
the line.ÿ It’s not uncommon to have an opponent drop
out at the last minute; you may be able to help the
promoter find a replacement if you have contacts that
you can call.ÿ That instructor you met a couple of
months ago may know someone willing to stand in.
5.) References – Keep a list of people who know you,
have seen you fight and can reassure any promoter of
your ability and character.
6.) Exposure – Attend as many shows as possible.
Introduce yourself to all the other fighters,
managers, promoters or anyone who is involved in the
show.ÿ Word of mouth is a great way to promote
yourself.
7.) Contracts – Ask for a contract, even as an amateur
when agreeing to fight in a show.ÿ Most promoters do
not draw up contracts for amateur fighters, but
usually will if asked to do so.ÿ It will be in your
best interest to get EVERYTHING in writing.ÿ Make sure
it states all amounts, reimbursements, hotel stay and
consequences of not being able to fight as agreed.ÿ
8.) Reputation – Remember that your reputation can
make or break a person’s career.ÿ If you SAY you are
going to do something, then do it, even if you didn’t
sign a contract.ÿ Be on time and prepared for whatever
you are doing.
9.) Conduct – Always conduct yourself in a
professional way.ÿ Promoters will avoid working with
you, if you are known for causing trouble.ÿ Show
yourself and others courtesy and respect.ÿ Conduct
goes along with Reputation: You will be known for the
way you act in public.ÿ Always try to maintain the
best of both.
10.)ÿÿÿ Respect – Be respectful of the other fighters,
managers and promoters.ÿ Let the promoters know you
appreciate the opportunity to show your skills in
their show.
-Sharell Toon
sharelllarae@yahoo.com